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Tag: AFCON

  • AFCON: Chris Hughton to alter starting XI for Egypt game

    AFCON: Chris Hughton to alter starting XI for Egypt game

    The head coach of the Ghana national football team, Chris Hughton, is reportedly planning to make changes to his starting eleven for the upcoming game against Egypt in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The information, gathered from sources in Abidjan where the team is based, suggests that changes will be made following Ghana’s 2-1 loss to Cape Verde in their first Group B match.

    The initial starting eleven against Cape Verde was missing key players Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams.

    However, it is expected that Mohammed Kudus will return to the starting lineup after recovering from injury. Additionally, Alidu Seidu may come in to replace the experienced Denis Odoi at right-back.

    Ghana needs a positive result against Egypt to enhance its chances of advancing to the knockout stage of the 2023 AFCON. The match is scheduled to kick off at 8 pm local time.

  • Onana trains with Cameroon; high probability of being a part of next match’s line-up

    Onana trains with Cameroon; high probability of being a part of next match’s line-up

    Goalkeeper Andre Onana, aged 27, is poised to return to Cameroon’s starting lineup for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations group game against defending champions Senegal on Friday.

    Onana missed Cameroon’s first match of the tournament in the Ivory Coast on Monday as he was permitted to stay at Manchester United and participate in their 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

    After the match at Old Trafford, he flew to the Ivory Coast by charter plane overnight but arrived just hours before kick-off against Guinea, resulting in a 1-1 draw for Cameroon.

    The decision to allow him to miss the opening match sparked controversy among Cameroon supporters.

    In a post-arrival interview in the Ivory Coast, Onana spoke about the challenging balance of loyalty between club and country, particularly for African internationals compelled to leave their European clubs mid-season to compete in the Cup of Nations.

    “It’s like choosing between my father and my mother, but my country comes first; that’s why I’m here,” he said

    “Let people continue to criticise me. I’m used to it. I do what is good for my country,” Onana added.

    Onana has a chequered history with Cameroon after breaking through into the team while still a teenager at Ajax Amsterdam.

    He did, however, participate in the most recent Cup of Nations two years ago, just months after returning from a protracted doping ban.

    He declined a call-up to the 2017 Cup of Nations finals, which Cameroon went on to win, and was sent home after one match at the last World Cup in Qatar due to a disagreement with coach Rigobert Song, which has since been resolved.

  • We received $400 to support Black Stars at AFCON – Ghana Supporters Union

    We received $400 to support Black Stars at AFCON – Ghana Supporters Union

    The Ghana Supporters Union currently in Ivory Coast to support the senior national team at the 2023 AFCON tournament, has confirmed that its members received $400 each.

    Abraham Nkansah, a member of the Union, clarified during a press conference held in Abidjan that it wasn’t due to threats to boycott their support for the Black Stars.

    According to reports from Abidjan, the fans were left stranded following their arrival in Ivory Coast to support the Black Stars. They are said to have threatened to boycott the rest of the games.

    Over 400 supporters were transported to the neighbouring country by the Sports Ministry, with the intention of backing the national team to success.

    However, after the 2-1 defeat to Cape Verde on Sunday, fans have become frustrated by their living conditions in Abidjan.

    A select side from the Sports Ministry is expected to arrive in Core d’Ivoire on Thursday to meet the fans of the Black Stars.

    “I am particularly when I heard that the traditional team of supporters who will always travel with the team across the globe, the main supporters union, are also as we speak part of the people that are stranded. Well I deem it speculative for now but I will be there to get all the details,” said Wisdom Kobena Woyome, ranking member of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Parliamentary Select Committee, to Citi Sports.

    Ghana will train later today for their game against Egypt on Thursday.

  • Ecobank Group launches new brand campaign at AfCON 2023

    Ecobank Group launches new brand campaign at AfCON 2023

    Ecobank, a prominent pan-African financial services group, has introduced its latest brand campaign, ‘A Better Way | A Better Africa,’ during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 (AFCON).”

    As an official sponsor of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023, Ecobank takes pride in leveraging the unifying, exhilarating, and progressive spirit of African football. 

    Through this, the financial services group aims to showcase its commitment to the sustainable growth of the continent. The campaign emphasizes Ecobank‘s dedication to empowering its clients and customers in attaining their goals for a better future, contributing to the vision of a better Africa.

    Jeremy Awori, Chief Executive Officer-Ecobank Group said: “At Ecobank, we drive growth in Africa by our delivery of affordable, reliable and innovative financial services to our clients and customers, while making a significant contribution to Africa’s development. ‘A BETTER WAY | A BETTER AFRICA’ reflects our unwavering dedication to our continent. Driven by our commitment to continuous improvement, we deliver enhanced financial services, greater customer experience and more customer-centric solutions”.

    The foundation of this brand campaign is rooted in the findings of a comprehensive pan-African brand survey, which encompasses insights and opportunities gathered through extensive research.

    Jeremy Awori added: “Our pan-African purpose and single gateway platform, as well as the diversity of our leading workforce operating from 35 countries, position us as an enabler and partner for our clients and customers to identify and seize new opportunities”.

    The campaign also highlights Ecobank’s digital network and its continent-wide connectivity; including its unified payment ecosystem, which supports market access and business growth, while capitalising on opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    The fully integrated campaign features a diverse mix of digital and traditional media and includes a television commercial filmed on the continent. Following the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023, the campaign will continue being rolled out across Africa.

    Ecobank Group (or ‘Ecobank Transnational Incorporated’ or ‘ETI’)

    Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment.

    The Group employs over 14,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers.

  • Mali launch AFCON campaign on a good start, South Africa suffer defeat

    Mali launch AFCON campaign on a good start, South Africa suffer defeat

    Hamari Traore and Lassine Sinayoko scored second-half goals as Mali secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in their Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

    Captain Traore tapped in the opening goal in the 60th minute of the Group E encounter, and striker Sinayoko quickly added a second for Mali. South Africa had the better of the first half but missed a penalty when Percy Tau’s attempt went high over the crossbar.

    Despite Tau’s missed opportunity, South Africa had more chances in the opening period. However, Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra denied Tau twice.

    Mali had a near chance to take the lead just before halftime when poor defending from South Africa’s Siyanda Xulu and Mothobi Mvala almost allowed Sinayoko to score.

    Mali improved in the second half, and Traore scored the opening goal after a free-kick from Sekou Koita was initially saved by South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

    Sinayoko extended Mali’s lead six minutes later, securing the victory. South Africa tried to salvage the game in the closing stages but hit the left post with a long-range free-kick in added time.

  • GFA engages Chris Hughton ahead of clash with Egypt

    GFA engages Chris Hughton ahead of clash with Egypt

    Ghana Football Association (GFA) convened a crucial meeting with coach Chris Hughton after the disappointing performance of the Black Stars at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

    The team’s 2-1 loss to Cape Verde led to criticism of Hughton’s lineup choices and tactics.

    Following the defeat, there were reports of a fan engaging in a heated exchange with Hughton. The GFA, however, played down the incident, mentioning that it was internally addressed and no arrests were made.

    Despite the challenges, the association met with the embattled coach and conveyed its support, as stated by Henry Asante-Twum, the spokesperson for the GFA.

    “We have had a meeting with the coach and gave him 100% assurance that we are solidly behind him,” Asante-Twum told BBC Sport.

    “We think it is possible for the team to win the two remaining matches to make it to the next round.”

    As the Black Stars gear up to face Egypt in their upcoming match, coach Chris Hughton is under significant pressure to secure a victory and dispel doubts surrounding his leadership.

    Hughton’s performance leading up to the AFCON has been lackluster, with only one win against Madagascar and defeats to Comoros, Mexico, and the United States in five games. A 0-0 draw against Namibia just before the tournament did little to boost confidence in the team’s readiness.

    With criticism mounting, Hughton must now inspire his team and formulate a winning strategy against Egypt. Both teams are seeking redemption after unexpected setbacks, making the upcoming match a crucial and tense encounter for their respective campaigns.

  • AFCON: Egypt promises a different play style in clash with Ghana

    AFCON: Egypt promises a different play style in clash with Ghana

    Rui Vitoria, Head Coach of Egypt, has sent strong warning to the Black Stars ahead of their next game against Ghana in the second group game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Thursday, January 18 at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.

    The seven-time African champions narrowly escaped defeat after a spirited Mozambique side almost edged them but were unlucky to have Mohamed Salah convert from the spot to snatch a late draw.


    Egypt’s Head Coach, Rui Vitoria, has issued a stern warning to the Black Stars in anticipation of their upcoming match against Ghana in the second group game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The clash is scheduled for Thursday, January 18, at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.

    The seven-time African champions narrowly avoided defeat in their previous game, facing a spirited Mozambique side that came close to securing a victory. However, luck was on Egypt’s side, as Mohamed Salah converted from the spot to secure a late draw.

    “Mozambique has a solid team; I said it before meeting them and that’s what happened today.

    “They gave us a lot of tactical problems with this low pack. This team has excellent elements in midfield. They found gaps in us and they took advantage of it,” Vitoria said.

    “It’s going to be a different story. We would have to reduce the spaces and be more concentrated because, against an experienced team like Ghana, the slightest mistake is paid dearly,” he added.

    On their defensive errors, Vitoria said they would need to urgently work on them as they would be punished severely against teams like Ghana if they were not prepared.

    Coach Vitoria says their opponents gave them a lot of tactical problems and they were up against a team that had a good midfield.

  • AFCON: Andre Onana finally joins teammates in Cameroon camp

    AFCON: Andre Onana finally joins teammates in Cameroon camp

    Finally, Andre Onana, the keeper for Manchester United, has arrived in Cameroon for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The 27-year-old goalkeeper delayed his participation in the Ivory Coast tournament due to his club commitments.

    Discussions were conducted between his English club and the national team to ensure his availability for the draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, which concluded with a 2-2 score.

    While fans left Old Trafford after the game, Onana embarked on a 4,800-mile journey from Manchester to the Ivory Coast on a private jet.

    Although the former Ajax shot-stopper will miss Cameroon’s AFCON opener against Guinea on Monday, January 15, he is now available for the tournament.

    The Indomitable Lions find themselves in Group C alongside Senegal, Guinea, and the Gambia.

    Onana had retired from international duty last year following disagreements with Cameroon coach Rigobert Song, leading to his exclusion from the 2022 World Cup squad.

    However, he later reversed his decision, expressing his willingness to represent his country in the future.

    Onana’s belated arrival means he won’t start in Cameroon’s first AFCON group game, leaving uncertainty about his participation in their second match.

  • Senegal starts its title defence in a 3-0 win over 10-man Gambia

    Senegal starts its title defence in a 3-0 win over 10-man Gambia

    Senegal kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations title defence with a commanding 3-0 triumph over 10-man Gambia in Group C, bringing an end to a series of surprising results at the tournament in the Ivory Coast.

    In the opening Group C encounter at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium, Pape Gueye scored early for Senegal, and Lamine Camara’s brace solidified their victory. Gueye netted in the fourth minute, setting the tone for Senegal’s dominance.

    The 20-year-old Camara, Young African Player of the Year in 2023, showcased his talent with a superb finish seven minutes into the second half and a sublime second goal into the top corner four minutes from time.

    Gambia faced adversity as Ebou Adams received a red card for a needless stamp on Camara in stoppage time at the end of the first half. The numerical disadvantage left Gambia vulnerable in the second period.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3wxW1tnWDA

    Senegal’s initial lead was established when Gueye capitalised on a poor clearance by Gambia captain Omar Colley, with Sadio Mane providing the assist.

    Adams’ reckless foul on Camara led to his red card after a VAR check, resulting in a two-match ban for the Cardiff City defender.

    Senegal doubled their lead with simplicity, as Ismaila Sarr received a defense-splitting pass from captain Kalidou Koulibaly, setting up Camara for his second goal. The third goal came from Iliman Ndiaye’s skillful play, creating an opportunity for Camara to complete his brace.

    Despite Gambia’s surprising quarter-final run two years ago, they struggled to mount a significant offensive threat in this match. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy thwarted an early shot from Musa Barrow to secure the victory.

    The second Group C game in the Ivorian capital features Cameroon and Guinea later on Monday.

  • We lack a lot of experience – Jordan Ayew on Black Stars defeat

    Black Stars forward, Jordan Ayew, has attributed the loss of the National team in the match against Cape Verde, to a lack of experience on the part of most players.

    In a post match interview, Jordan asserted that most of the players who played on Sunday made their first appearance at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in yesterday’s game hence the many mistakes that eventually led to their defeat.

    “We lack a lot of experience. I know you can say anything but at the end of the day when you look at the squad, more than ten it’s their first AFCON,” he stated.

    Addressing the recent defeat of the Black Stars, in the match against Cape Verde, Jordan acknowledged that the mistakes made during the match do happen, however, he emphasized the importance of swift learning from the experience.

    “So these types of mistakes and we need to learn quick,” he said.

    The Black Stars faced a challenging match that resulted in an unexpected defeat. Cape Verde scored the first goal in the game, however, the Black Stars equalised but Cape Verde later scored their second goal few minutes to the end of the game. 

    Regardless, he entreated the players to get over the defeat, get back up and do their better in their subsequent games. 

    “The AFCON is there, it’s not waiting for anyone. It’s not easy, it’s hard and we are men, we need to stand up and face the reality,” he said. 

  • AFCON: “We lost concentration” – Egypt coach on draw with Mozambique

    AFCON: “We lost concentration” – Egypt coach on draw with Mozambique

    Egypt’s coach, Rui Vitoria, attributed his team’s unexpected 2-2 draw against Mozambique in their opening Group B game of the Africa Cup of Nations in Abidjan on Sunday to a momentary lapse in concentration.

    Mohamed Salah came to their rescue with a late penalty, sparing Egypt from their first-ever defeat to Mozambique.

    The turn of events saw Mostafa Mohamed scoring in the second minute for Egypt, only for Mozambique to respond with two rapid goals in the second half.

    Salah’s successful conversion of the spot-kick occurred seven minutes into stoppage time, salvaging a draw for the Egyptian team.

    “We lost concentration for three minutes, but we are still in the race to qualify; nothing is lost,” Vitoria told beIN Sports.
    Although Nantes striker Mohamed opened the scoring with a fine shot on the turn, Egypt never really clicked into gear. Apart from a Mahmoud Trézéguet effort that hit the outside of the post, Mozambique were barely troubled at the back in the first half.

    Salah, predominantly positioned as a deep-lying forward rather than a right winger, encountered a subdued performance. Meanwhile, Mozambique exhibited liveliness in their offensive play, consistently overpowering Egypt’s weak midfield and exploiting vulnerabilities in their defensive flanks.

    Mohamed, who made his Nations Cup scoring debut after featuring in the previous edition in Cameroon, attributed Egypt’s fatigue to the high humidity levels in the Ivorian capital.

    “The weather in Africa is different; the humidity is high and the concentration drops,” he said. “The best thing is that we learn early, so we know our mistakes before the crucial rounds, like the quarter-finals or the round of 16.”

    Egypt is set to face their primary rivals, Ghana, on Thursday in their upcoming match, followed by the conclusion of their group stage campaign against Cape Verde on January 22nd.

    “Each match has a different situation; the teams may not be at their best on a given day, but we have to prepare well for the match against Ghana,” Portuguese boss Vitoria added.

  • AFCON: This is on Chris Hughton! – Fentuo fumes at Ghana’s loss to Cape Verde

    AFCON: This is on Chris Hughton! – Fentuo fumes at Ghana’s loss to Cape Verde

    Ghana’s disappointing start in the AFCON yesterday appears to have ‘broken’ several Ghanaians, with many venting their displeasure and anger on social media.

    Cape Verde secured a win against the Black Stars in injury time, ending the Black Stars’ 2-1 loss to Cape Verde.

    Whereas some netizens, including Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, jabbed the players to change the name Black Stars to Black Soil, others, such as outspoken journalists Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo, fumed at Black Stars coach Chris Hughton for what he describes as “poor selection, substitutions and overall poor game management.”.

    He said, “This is on Chris Hughton! Poor selection, poor substitutions and overall poor game management. He settled for a draw, a long way from full time, instead of looking for a win. We’ve fallen off so badly!” Fentuo said.

    However, the journalist expressed optimism over Ghana’s win in its clash with Egypt on Thursday, April 18, 2024.

    During an interview earlier today, January 15, 2024, he mentioned that “Ghana shall not lose to Egypt and if the Black Stars indeed win against Egypt, he should be called “Abiba” and also be coerced to sing Rex Omar’s popular song “Abiba.”

    Fentuo is one of the many celebrities who have expressed their discontent and agitation over the Black Stars ‘heart-breaking’ start in the AFCON.

    In a video commentary, Shatta Wale argued that the team’s name, ‘Black Stars,’ should be substituted with ‘Black Soil,’ indicating his belief that the squad may not achieve significant success, contrary to their past performances in the tournament.

    “How can a star be black? Name the team Black Soil so they can at least produce something because black soils are the best.”

  • 2023 AFCON: Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea game ends in stalemate

    2023 AFCON: Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea game ends in stalemate

    Nigeria narrowly avoided a shock defeat in their opening game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Equatorial Guinea as Victor Osimhen’s quick response secured a 1-1 draw.

    Equatorial Guinea took a surprising lead with Iban Salvador’s classy first-half finish, their only shot on target. Osimhen promptly equalized by heading in Ademola Lookman’s cross right after the underdogs’ opener.

    Despite Equatorial Guinea being 46 places below Nigeria in world rankings, they celebrated their lead jubilantly. However, Osimhen’s goal and some crucial saves from goalkeeper Jesus Owono ensured a hard-fought draw for both teams.

    The result leaves Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea two points behind Ivory Coast in Group A, with the latter securing a 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau in the tournament opener. Nigeria will face Ivory Coast in their next match, while Equatorial Guinea will take on Guinea-Bissau.

  • AFCON: GTV wins ‘viewership war’ over DSTV – Twitter poll

    AFCON: GTV wins ‘viewership war’ over DSTV – Twitter poll

    For the past few days, GTV and DSTV have been at ‘war’ over the quality of graphics in their coverage of the 2023–2024 AFCON.

    The two broadcasting stations began a social media banter, specifically on X (formerly Twitter), on Friday.

    GTV and DSTV both said they had secured broadcast rights to show the AFCON 2023 games and wanted Ghanaian football fans to watch on their respective channels.

    In a bid to get more viewers on their respective channels, the two began to jab each other, with each telling how best they are and highlighting the flaws of the other.

    However, in a Twitter poll conducted by TV3 a day after the AFCON opener in Cote d’Ivoire between the host country and Guinea-Bissau.

    The results show that about 62% of netizens watched the AFCON opener on GTV, while 32.4% watched on DSTV, followed by GOtv, which had 3.25% of netizens watching from their channel and StarTimes sitting last in the poll.

  • GTV vs DSTV: The Battle for AFCON 2024 viewership

    GTV vs DSTV: The Battle for AFCON 2024 viewership

    A social media post by the anonymous administrator of the Ghana National Television (GTV) has sparked a hilarious and controversial online debate ahead of the 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
    The post, which was shared on the station’s Facebook page, read: “Bad weather and a Satellite TV. If you know, you know! #AFCON2023”.
    Some netizens interpreted the post as a subtle dig at pay-TV service DSTV Ghana, implying that their satellite signal would be affected by bad weather during the AFCON matches, while GTV would provide uninterrupted coverage.
    Others, however, saw the post as a clever marketing strategy by the GTV administrator, who was trying to attract more viewers to the national broadcaster, which has been struggling to generate revenue from TV licence fees.
    Maxwell Mawuena Mensah Exlimit-Gadze, one of the commenters, praised the post, saying: “Solid defensive marketing. Y’all are doing a great job”.
    However, DSTV Ghana seems to have responded to GTV’s post, as they wrote in a post: “Someone told you to watch the #AFCON2023 with poor picture quality, but did you know they will watch HD quality on #DSTVGhana? Choose wisely.”
    DSTV Ghana also wrote in another post: “Don’t get it twisted; don’t be deceived. We’ve got the best of everything when it comes to #AFCON2023. Don’t settle for terrible picture quality, poor sound, or anything below standard. #DSTV Ghana has got you covered”.
    The online rivalry between GTV and DSTV Ghana has generated a lot of reactions from football fans, who are eagerly awaiting the start of the AFCON 2024, which will feature 24 national teams competing for the continental glory.
    Defending champions Senegal will be among the favourites to retain their title, along with Morocco, Algeria, Nigeria, and Egypt.
    GTV has been campaigning for Ghanaians to pay their TV licence fees, which are mandatory by law, in order to help the station operate effectively and efficiently. However, many citizens have refused to pay, claiming that GTV does not offer quality and interesting programmes.
    Nana Osei Kwaku, another commenter, expressed his dissatisfaction with GTV, saying: “We want clear pictures, not nwansena. Don’t compromise on quality”. Nwansena is a Twi word that means blurred or unclear.
    According to the GTV administration, the station is the only one that is accredited to broadcast the upcoming AFCON 2024 in Ghana, which will kick off on Sunday, January 20, 2024, with Ghana playing against Cape Verde in their opening match.

  • GTV, DSTV at war over AFCON coverage

    GTV, DSTV at war over AFCON coverage

    In an animated interaction on Twitter, Ghana Television (GTV) and DSTV Ghana engaged in a friendly yet competitive marketing exchange on Friday regarding the broadcasting rights for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

    The social media banter began with GTV announcing their coverage of all Afcon matches, aiming to offer viewers an excellent football-watching experience. GTV questioned the rationale for viewers paying to watch when they could access all matches for free.

    However, the banter took an unexpected turn when DSTV Ghana responded with a controversial tweet, questioning whether viewers would prefer watching Afcon matches with poor quality.

    “Don’t settle for terrible picture quality, poor sound or anything below standard,” DSTV Ghana tweeted, suggesting that viewers should opt for high-definition pictures on Supersport.

    The banter continued between the two broadcast channels until netizens concluded it was a spice to the rivalry between the Ghana national broadcaster and the satellite television giant over the Afcon broadcast, even though the tweets did not mention the names of each of the brands.

    As the banter continues to unfold, football enthusiasts eagerly await the resolution of this Twitter showdown, wondering which network will emerge victorious in securing the hearts and screens of the nation for the highly anticipated Afcon tournament. 

  • 2023 AFCON: GFA confirms Black Stars “do not have any injury worries”

    2023 AFCON: GFA confirms Black Stars “do not have any injury worries”

    Henry Asante Twum, the spokesperson for the Ghana Football Association, has affirmed that the Black Stars are currently free from any injury concerns as they prepare for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations opener against Cape Verde.

    While the team had a few players sidelined with minor injuries, such as star player Kudus Mohammed, who missed the Kumasi camping and the friendly against Namibia, Asante Twum assured that all players are now free from injuries and the situation is well-managed.

    “Everything is under control. We do not have any injury worries whatsoever in camp,” he said.

    In the Namibia friendly, Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo and RC Lens midfielder Salis Abdul Samed were excluded from the squad due to minor issues.

    The pair, along with Kudus, returned to full training a day after the friendly before embarking on the trip to Ivory Coast.

    Ghana is scheduled to play against Cape Verde in a Group B match at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on January 14, 2024, with a kickoff time of 20:00 GMT.

  • AFCON: Players faint, forcing the plane to return as oxygen fails in Gambia flight during Ivory Coast trip

    AFCON: Players faint, forcing the plane to return as oxygen fails in Gambia flight during Ivory Coast trip

    Gambia national football team narrowly averted a potential disaster when the oxygen supply on their flight from Gambia to Ivory Coast malfunctioned en route to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Gambian journalist Sané Malang reported that some players experienced fainting spells due to the lack of oxygen on board, prompting the aircraft to return to Gambia.

    As a result, two players are grappling with the trauma of the incident.

    According to a report by First Mag+, the unsettling situation was attributed to the confined size of the plane.

    In a recent tweet on X (formerly Twitter), Sané Malang revealed that Ivory Coast intervened by dispatching Air Ivoir to transport the Gambian delegation safely to Yamoussoukro.

    The incident underscores the critical importance of ensuring proper conditions for the safe travel of sports teams during major tournaments.

    “Air Ivoir sent a new plane, which has already arrived in Gambia, to transport the Gambian delegation to Yamoussoukro.”

    Gambia finds itself placed in Group C for the upcoming tournament scheduled to commence on January 13, 2024. Their campaign kicks off with a match against Senegal on Monday, January 16.

    Subsequently, they will encounter Guinea and Cameroon in their last two group stage matches. The group stage fixtures will be crucial for determining their advancement in the tournament.

  • AFCON 2023:West Ham provides physio escort to their star player, Kudus

    AFCON 2023:West Ham provides physio escort to their star player, Kudus

    Mohammed Kudus has officially arrived in Kumasi to join the Black Stars’ camp in preparation for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The confirmation of his arrival came through a video shared on the national team’s social media platforms on Tuesday afternoon.

    Accompanying the 23-year-old was a member of the medical team, likely a physiotherapist, from his club, West Ham United.

    This physiotherapist from the Premier League side, currently placed sixth, will collaborate with the Black Stars’ medical team to ensure Kudus attains full fitness before participating in the Ivory Coast tournament.

    The duration required for Kudus’s recovery remains uncertain.

    Reports suggest that the player may need an additional five to six days to recover from the hamstring injury sustained during a game against Arsenal on December 28.

    Consequently, Kudus is unlikely to be available for the team’s opening AFCON group game against Cape Verde on Sunday.

    The absence of Kudus poses a considerable challenge for the national team, given his impactful contributions. Kudus has notably scored nine goals and provided three assists in 30 games for the national team.

    Additionally, his performances this season include six goals in 16 Premier League games and two goals in five Europa League matches.

    It’s worth noting that Mohamed Kudus is still awaiting his first AFCON appearance for the Black Stars. In the previous tournament in 2021 in Cameroon, he had to withdraw due to a rib fracture.

  • Opta supercomputer predicts 5.3% as chances of Ghana winning AFCON

    Opta supercomputer predicts 5.3% as chances of Ghana winning AFCON

    Opta’s supercomputer predictions has indicated that Ghana faces a 5.3% chance of clinching victory in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), hosted in the Ivory Coast.

    The Black Stars are vying for their fifth continental crown, aiming to break a four-decade trophy drought dating back to 1982.

    Chris Hughton’s squad, placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Mozambique, and Cape Verde, is set to kick off their AFCON campaign against Cape Verde on Sunday.

    The supercomputer analysis, conducted ahead of the tournament, has identified the favourites and assessed the probabilities for each participating country.

    Defending champions Senegal top the list with a 12.8% chance, closely followed by hosts the Ivory Coast at 12.1%.

    Morocco, semi-finalists in the 2022 World Cup, secures the third spot with an 11.1% chance, while Algeria, Egypt, and Nigeria trail closely behind in the rankings.

    Ghana, positioned as the ninth favourite, enters the AFCON with a slim 5.3% chance of emerging victorious in the tournament, as per the Opta supercomputer predictions.

  • ” This tournament is even harder than the World Cup” – Dede Ayew on AFCON

    ” This tournament is even harder than the World Cup” – Dede Ayew on AFCON

    Black Stars captain Andre Ayew has highlighted the formidable nature of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing it as an even more demanding competition than the World Cup.

    Ayew shared this insight during a farewell dinner on Tuesday night, preceding the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where President Akufo-Addo encouraged the team to pursue victory despite a 42-year title drought.

    Placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique, Ghana will kick off its AFCON journey against Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14.

    Speaking at the event, the Le Havre player emphasised the intensity of the AFCON tournament, stating, “This tournament is even harder than the World Cup.”

    He underlined the significance of unity within the team, assuring that the players would remain cohesive and competitive throughout the tournament.

    “We know that it is the hardest tournament, for me, in the World Cup when it comes to fighting, determination, and energy, so the only way we can do this is by being together and being united, and for that, Your Excellency, I can assure you that we are united and we want to do it,” he added.


    Wearing vibrant Kente attire, the Black Stars arrived in Ivory Coast on Wednesday afternoon.

  • Latest statistics show Ghana will do well in AFCON 2023,

    Latest statistics show Ghana will do well in AFCON 2023,


    In a recent straw poll conducted by football writer and analyst Joel Bortey, 60 Ghanaian sports journalists participated, expressing their opinions and predictions for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, set to kick off in Ivory Coast in just three days.

    Following the announcement of the 27-man squad on January 1, 2024, Chris Hughton’s team has been in a training camp in Kumasi, gearing up for their departure to Ivory Coast on January 10.

    There has been significant speculation and discussion among football enthusiasts regarding the Black Stars’ prospects, particularly in light of their disappointing performance in the previous edition, where they exited the tournament without securing a victory for the first time in history.

    As part of the ongoing evaluation to gauge improvements in the current squad in comparison to the previous edition, a decisive 88.3 percent of sports journalists have conveyed their optimism.

    They cast their votes in favour of the Black Stars advancing beyond the group stage in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Notably, the group consists of formidable opponents such as Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique. This resounding endorsement reflects a prevailing confidence among sports journalists in the team’s enhanced capabilities, signalling an expectation for a superior performance in the upcoming tournament.

    “The new structure of the AFCON makes it really difficult to be eliminated from the group stages. Ghana’s squad has more quality this time and worst-case scenario, they should make it one of the best third-placed teams,” a sports journalist said anonymously.

    In the 2023 football calendar, the Black Stars won only four out of nine games, with a 3-1 victory over Liberia being their biggest and their worst loss being a devastating 4-0 scoreline in favour of the USA.

    Many supporters of the Black Stars were furious when the senior national team lost 1-0 to the Comoros, who are ranked 119th in the FIFA rankings. Despite it being a one-goal loss, it is seen as humiliating for a nation like Ghana.

    Contrary to the earlier opinion, seven out of the sixty sports journalists voted for the national team to exit the competition after their final group game.

    “I only see the Black Stars winning one game out of the group they find themselves in. The current squad is 80% similar to the squad that faced Comoros on November 21, 2023. If they lost 1-0, I don’t see how they win against Cape Verde in their group opener and Egypt in the second fixture.” Another sports journalist said anonymously.

    Considering the outcome of 2023, it came as a big surprise as 40% of sports journalists voted for Ghana to exit the Africa Cup of Nations at the quarter-final stage.

    “Despite the absence of Thomas Partey, Ghana has enough quality to make a good one in the competition. There is only a handful of teams better than the Black Stars in terms of individual players. With Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams in the side, there is a lot of hope.”

    History seems to be on the side of the four-time champions. Since making its debut in the competition in 1963, Ghana has been to the Quarter-final stage at least 17 times in 23 appearances at the Africa Cup of Nations.

  • AFCON: Nigeria’s Super Eagles star Boniface reported to miss some matches after groin injury

    AFCON: Nigeria’s Super Eagles star Boniface reported to miss some matches after groin injury

    Nigerian striker Victor Boniface indicated on Monday that he is likely to miss this month’s Africa Cup of Nations due to a groin injury sustained during training.

    The 23-year-old Bayer Leverkusen player was absent from his country’s final warm-up friendly against Guinea on Monday, and local reports suggest he could be sidelined for up to six weeks.

    “Good luck, guys. Wish you guys all the best at Afcon @ng_supereagles,” Boniface wrote on his Instagram account.

    Bundesliga leader Bayer Leverkusen’s top scorer, Boniface, with 10 goals in 16 league games this season, has sustained an injury.

    The striker, who made his international debut in October, earned four more caps.

    His injury compounds Nigeria’s concerns following the recent withdrawal of midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, injured during Leicester City’s win on December 29.

    Striker Kelechi Iheanacho, also dealing with an injury, is being evaluated at Nigeria’s training camp, with expectations of him recovering for the upcoming tournament starting on Saturday.

    Nigeria begins its Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Equatorial Guinea, followed by matches against hosts Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau.

  • AFCON: Ghana-Namibia match likely not to be streamed – GFA

    AFCON: Ghana-Namibia match likely not to be streamed – GFA

    Ghana Football Association (GFA) has prohibited the streaming and broadcasting of Ghana’s friendly match against Namibia, ensuring it will not be available on television and social media.

    Scheduled as the final preparatory match ahead of the 2023 AFCON, the Black Stars are set to face Namibia on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

    This match is seen as crucial preparation for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Ivory Coast.

    Despite expressions of interest from some local media houses to broadcast the match on TV, investigations by GhanaWeb Sports reveal that the GFA has denied them access to do so.

    During the Black Stars squad announcement for the 2023 AFCON on January 1, 2024, coach Chris Hughton, through the GFA communications director, informed the public that the match won’t be televised, although it is open to spectators at the stadium.

    “Like the coach mentioned earlier, the friendly against Namibia will be opened to the public so at least we shall have the opportunity to wish the team well before the players depart for Ivory Coast.

    “He also wants me to mention that streaming is not allowed for the friendly match,” Henry Asante Twum said.

  • Kudus injured, reported to miss Namibia match – Report

    Kudus injured, reported to miss Namibia match – Report

    Mohammed Kudus, a player for West Ham, has recently arrived in the country to join his fellow Black Stars players in the pre-African Cup of Nations (AFCON) camp.

    He is the last player from the Black Stars to report to the camp, and the team is gearing up for their journey to Ivory Coast, where the 2023 AFCON is scheduled to be held.

    “The star man will not be part of the team that plays Namibia in the pre-AFCON friendly tomorrow but will likely join the team anytime from tomorrow,” Saddick Adams stated on X.

    He added that Kudus is “nursing a minor injury and Accra offers the best opportunity to continue that recuperation. The Ghana Black Stars currently have some of the best medics on the continent and are in control of the situation.”

    Kudus has been displaying excellent form with his club, West Ham, and is considered a vital component of Chris Hughton’s team as Ghana aims to break a prolonged trophy drought in the upcoming AFCON.

    In the meantime, the Black Stars are set to face Namibia in an international friendly before their journey to Ivory Coast. The match is slated to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi later tonight.

  • Kudus not at Ghana’s camp for the 2023 AFCON yet – Report

    Kudus not at Ghana’s camp for the 2023 AFCON yet – Report

    Six days into the Black Stars’ training camp for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus has not yet reported to camp, according to reports.

    Despite being one of the 27 players invited by coach Chris Hughton to boost Ghana’s chances in the tournament, there has been no official information regarding his delayed arrival from either the Ghana Football Association or West Ham.

    The Black Stars have been training since January 1, 2023, at the Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in Kumasi as they intensify preparations for the competition.

    On January 8, 2024, they are scheduled to face Namibia in their final pre-tournament activity before departing for Ivory Coast.

    The Black Stars’ tournament opener against Cape Verde is set for January 14, 2024, at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium at 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT).

    The highly anticipated clash between Egypt’s Mohammed Salah and West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus is slated for January 18, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. (20:00 GMT) at the same venue.

    Ghana’s last group-stage match against Mozambique will take place on January 22, 2024, at the Olympic Stadium of Obimpe, starting at 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT).

  • 2023 AFCON: “It was about common sense”, but Partey wanted to be a part – Arteta

    2023 AFCON: “It was about common sense”, but Partey wanted to be a part – Arteta

    Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has shed light on Thomas Partey’s earnest efforts to regain fitness in time for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Addressing the media before Arsenal’s FA Cup match against Liverpool, Arteta revealed a pragmatic decision-making process between the club and the FA regarding Thomas Partey’s situation.

    Arteta clarified that, despite Thomas Partey’s strong desire to join Ghana’s team for the AFCON, the physical impossibility stemmed from the long-term injury he sustained in October 2023.

    Providing an update on Partey’s status, Arteta indicated that the 29-year-old midfielder is far from making a comeback, both for Arsenal and the Ghana national team.

    “It was about common sense. He had a long-term injury. He really wanted to be with his national team but he’s still far from training for the team and it didn’t make sense for him to be involved,” he said.

    https://youtu.be/323h4yaLNGo


    Thomas Partey, initially named in Ghana’s provisional 55-man squad, is among the high-profile players absent from the final selection due to injury.

    Notable omissions also include Kamaldeen Sulemana and Daniel Kofi Kyere, who were sidelined due to injuries.

    Despite their unavailability, these players will be fervently cheering on their teammates as the Black Stars kick off the tournament with the opening match against Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14, 2023, at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT).

    A highly anticipated showdown awaits in the second Group B game on January 18, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. (20:00 GMT), as Egypt and Ghana clash in a match that many expect to be a battle between Liverpool’s Mohammed Salah and West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus.

    The venue remains the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium.

    The culmination of Ghana’s group stage matches will see them face Mozambique on January 22, 2024, at the Olympic Stadium of Obimpe, with the game scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT).

  • AFCON to be telecast by StarTimes after company earns broadcast rights

    AFCON to be telecast by StarTimes after company earns broadcast rights


    In a groundbreaking move poised to redefine sports broadcasting, media giant StarTimes has officially secured the broadcasting rights for the highly anticipated Total Energies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, as well as all CAF Events held in 2024 in Anglophone & Lusophone Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    This comprehensive coverage includes CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

    This strategic acquisition solidifies StarTimes’ commitment to delivering top-tier sports content to its viewers, solidifying its position as a major player in the African media landscape.

    The Africa Cup of Nations, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is among the most prestigious football tournaments on the continent.

    The upcoming AFCON 2023, set to be hosted in Ivory Coast, will be the second time the West African nation has been chosen to host this prestigious tournament.

    Originally scheduled for the summer of 2023, the event has now been rescheduled to run from January 13 to February 11, 2024.

    With 24 participating nations, Côte d’Ivoire is gearing up for an exhilarating competition featuring a total of 52 matches, showcasing the best football talent from across the continent.

    StarTimes boasts a stellar track record in delivering high-quality sports coverage to millions of viewers across Africa. The media giant consistently demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the viewing experience for football enthusiasts by employing cutting-edge technology and providing comprehensive coverage.

    Continuing its partnership with CAF, StarTimes successfully broadcasted the 2019-2022 AFCON and the 2020 CHAN.

    StarTimes’ investment in the broadcasting rights for AFCON 2023 and CAF Events underscores the company’s dedication to supporting and promoting African sports. By securing these rights, StarTimes aims to bring the thrill and excitement of AFCON to an even broader audience, fostering a sense of unity and pride across the continent.

    “We are delighted to announce that StarTimes has secured the broadcasting rights for AFCON 2023,” said Mrs. Akofa Banson, General Manager at StarTimes Ghana.

    “This represents a significant milestone for us as we continue to bring the best in sports entertainment to our viewers. AFCON is a celebration of African talent and passion, and we are proud to play a key role in delivering this experience to homes across the continent.”

  • 2023 AFCON: Find out the date, time and venue for Ghana’s group matches

    2023 AFCON: Find out the date, time and venue for Ghana’s group matches

    Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, is intensifying its preparations for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, slated for January 13 to February 11, 2023, at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

    With a strong determination to end the country’s 41-year trophy drought, the Black Stars face the challenge of navigating through their opening three Group B matches.

    Kicking off their campaign against Cape Verde on January 14, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT) at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium, the team aims to make a significant impact.

    The subsequent Group B clash on January 18, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. (20:00 GMT) promises an exciting battle between Egypt and Ghana, featuring football stars Mohamed Salah and Mohammed Kudus.

    The match is set to take place at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTKNzzfr47Y
  • Sierra Leone’s national team train on dusty, grassless pitch ahead of AFCON

    Sierra Leone’s national team train on dusty, grassless pitch ahead of AFCON


    As Sierra Leone’s national team, the Leone Stars, readies itself for a friendly match against the hosts of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), concerns have emerged regarding the training facilities following pictures of the team practicing on a dust-laden, grassless pitch.

    Although the Leone Stars did not qualify for the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast, they perceive this friendly encounter as a vital test ahead of their World Cup qualifiers resuming in March.

    The less-than-ideal training conditions have sparked conversations among fans and observers, with images of the team honing their skills on a subpar pitch raising eyebrows.

    Despite this setback, the Leone Stars remain focused on their opening game against Guinea-Bissau at the Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe on January 13.

    For 2015 AFCON Champions Ivory Coast, this friendly match serves as a strategic opportunity to assess their readiness for the upcoming tournament, where they find themselves grouped with Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau in Group A.

    Eager to make a significant impact as hosts and surpass the quarter-final exit from the last edition, the Elephants are determined to showcase their prowess.

    The upcoming friendly clash holds added significance as the last encounter between Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast during the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon resulted in a 2-2 draw.

    Both teams, utilizing this match to fine-tune their strategies, set the stage for an intriguing prelude to the much-anticipated AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.

    Amidst discussions about the pitch conditions, the friendly match offers a glimpse into the teams’ preparations and aspirations for success on the continental stage.

  • West Ham send well wishes to their star player, Kudus ahead of 2023 AFCON

    In a heartfelt display of support and well-wishing, West Ham United has extended its warm regards to star midfielder Mohammed Kudus as he prepares for the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    As the tournament promises to showcase the pinnacle of African football talent, West Ham firmly stands behind Kudus, acknowledging not only his on-field prowess but also the immense pride he brings to the club.

    Recognised as a pivotal figure in West Ham’s dynamic play, the talented midfielder has shone brightly in the Premier League, and the club eagerly anticipates his center-stage performance on the continental platform.

    In a statement released today, West Ham conveyed their best wishes to Kudus, expressing confidence in his ability to make a significant impact on this prestigious tournament. The message reinforces the club’s unwavering support for their player and their pride in his representation on the international stage.

    “Good luck to Mo and Nayef as they represent their countries at #AFCON2023 ⚒️,” West Ham posted on X.

    Mohammed Kudus has made 16 appearances, scored six goals, and assisted one in the Premier League this season.

  • Otto Addo explains the essence of mindset for Black Stars ahead of AFCON

    Otto Addo explains the essence of mindset for Black Stars ahead of AFCON


    Former Black Stars coach Otto Addo     has provided valuable counsel to the Ghanaian national football team as they gear up for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    Emphasising the need for a strategic approach, Addo urges the team to prioritise a step-by-step method rather than being fixated solely on clinching the trophy.

    Ghana is slated to face formidable adversaries in Group B, including Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique, during the AFCON tournament scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, 2023.

    Speaking in anticipation of the competition, Otto Addo, who previously helmed the Black Stars during their 2022 World Cup campaign, underscores the importance of cultivating a gradual mindset. As the team navigates through the challenges ahead, Addo’s advice serves as a reminder to focus on the process rather than solely fixating on the end result.

    “Step-by-step thinking is far better. If you are aiming too far away, it is difficult to fulfil them because you have to work daily. You have to train hard, you have to win each game, and the rest will come,” he told GTV.

    When questioned about Ghana’s chances of breaking the 41-year wait for an AFCON trophy, the former Black Stars boss highlighted the importance of doing the groundwork first.

    “It doesn’t make sense to always think about the cup or whatever; you have to do your homework first. There is some work you have to put in to survive the group stage and go to the next stage, and at the end, to win it, it is so much work,” he added.


    Addo stressed the importance of instilling the right mentality within the entire Black Stars entourage as they enter the tournament. “Having the correct mindset is crucial in every moment. Even with the goal of winning, it’s essential to understand that sustaining that level requires continuous hard work. Therefore, my advice is for them to approach it game by game,” he emphasised.

    Ghana’s quest for AFCON glory has been a prolonged one since their last triumph in Libya in 1982. The journey to end this title drought demands meticulous planning and precise execution, making Addo’s counsel on a focused, game-by-game approach all the more pertinent.

  • Kwasi Appiah speaks on Black Stars line-up for 2023 AFCON

    Kwasi Appiah speaks on Black Stars line-up for 2023 AFCON

    Former Ghana coach James Kwasi Appiah has expressed support for the Black Stars squad chosen for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    On January 1, 2023, current Ghana coach Chris Hughton unveiled the 27-man squad for the continental tournament, with a notable inclusion of only three local players: Abdul Fatawu Hamidu and Jonathan Sowah from Medeama, and Richmond Lamptey from Kotoko.

    Star players such as Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Inaki Williams, and Mohammed Kudus were also part of the squad.

    Unfortunately, deputy captain Thomas Partey will miss AFCON due to an ongoing hamstring injury, emphasising a cautious approach to his recovery.

    James Kwasi Appiah, now the head coach of the Sudan national team, expressed his satisfaction with the selected Black Stars squad in an interview with Sienu TV, as monitored by Footballghana.com.

    “I think we’ve got a good squad. I’m in support of the players selected by the coach for the tournament but the only thing I am hoping for is the coach being bold to take decisions as to who should play or who should be on the bench and ones he is able to do that, looking at the list, I think they can compete at any level,” he said.

  • AFCON groupings: ‘We will struggle a bit” – Former Black Stars defender

    AFCON groupings: ‘We will struggle a bit” – Former Black Stars defender

    Former Ghanaian defender Frimpong Manso has voiced apprehensions regarding the Black Stars’ group-stage matchups in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Grouped with Cape Verde, Egypt, and Mozambique in Group B, Manso anticipates challenges and foresees the team encountering difficulties in these contests.

    In an interview with Kessben FM, Manso said, “I think we will struggle a bit in the group stage but I believe we will qualify for the next round. The next round is going to be very difficult. Because we are likely to face Ivory Coast or Nigeria, who are strong contenders in the competition.”

    Manso believes that the team needs to focus on their performances in the group stage in order to advance to the knockout stages.

    “Indeed, that’s where our competition will begin. I remember that in Angola 2010, we kept winning by a small margin, which took us to the final stage of the competition. It’s not going to be easy for us. But I believe we will struggle in the group stage but we will qualify.”


    Manso’s apprehensions are reasonable, considering Ghana’s lacklustre showings in recent Africa Cup of Nations editions.

    The team’s recent track record has been less than stellar, and facing formidable opponents like Cape Verde, Egypt, and Mozambique in the group stage adds to the challenge.

    Nevertheless, with a well-devised strategy and judicious player selection, Ghana possesses the capability to surmount these obstacles and stage a commendable performance in the tournament.

  • AFCON: Check out the jersey number of your favourite players

    AFCON: Check out the jersey number of your favourite players

    The jersey numbers have been assigned to the 27 players representing Ghana at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, as reported by Onuaonline.

    The numbering starts with Richard Ofori at number 1 and concludes with Jonathan Sowah at 27. Andre Ayew will sport his favored number 10, while Mohammed Kudus opts for the number 20 shirt.

    Jordan Ayew takes on number 9, with Ashimeru donning the iconic number 8 shirt. Kumasi Asante Kotoko’s Richmond Lamptey will wear jersey number 22.

    Ghana’s campaign in the tournament begins on Sunday, January 14, 2024, against Cape Verde, followed by a match against Egypt four days later. The group stage concludes with a game against Mozambique on Monday, January 22, 2024.

    In their quest to secure an AFCON trophy after over 40 years, head coach Chris Hughton has called up 27 players.

    The squad, announced on Monday, January 1, 2024, has been in training in Kumasi ahead of the tournament. Notably, Richard Ofori and Jordan Ayew joined their teammates on the second day of training.

    The arrival of these players means that Chris Hughton has 25 of the 27 players in camp.

    Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams are the two players yet to join the camp. The Black Stars will conclude their preparations with a friendly against Namibia on Monday, January 8, 2024.

    Grouped in Group B, Ghana will face Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in the group stage. The 2023 AFCON is scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11.

    Check the full list below:

    Goalkeepers

    Lawrence Ati Zigi, Richard Ofori and Jojo Wollacott

    Defenders

    Alidu Seidu, Dennis Odoi, Kingsley Schindler, Gideon Mensah, Hamid Abdul Fatawu, Daniel Amartey, Nicholas Opoku, Alexander Djiku and Mohammed Salisu

    Midfielders

    Samed Salis, Baba Iddrisu, Majeed Ashimeru, Elisha Owusu, Richmond Lamptey
    Mohammed Kudus, Andre Ayew, Ransford Konigsdorffer, Osman Bukari, Joseph Paintsil, Jordan Ayew and Ernest Nuamah

    Strikers

    Iñaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo and Jonathan Sowah

    The jersey numbers are as follows:

    1 – Richard Ofori

    2 – Alidu Seidu

    3 – Denis Frimpong Odoi

    4 – Nicholas Opoku

    5 – Kingsley Schindler

    6 – Mohammed Salisu

    7 – Ransford-Yeboah Konigsdorffer

    8 – Majeed Ashimeru

    9 – Jordan Ayew

    10 – Andre Ayew

    11 – Osman Bukari

    12 – Jojo Wollacott

    13 – Joseph Paintsil

    14 – Gideon Mensah

    15 – Elisha Owusu

    16 – Lawrence Ati-Zigi

    17 – Abdul Fatawu Hamid

    18 – Daniel Amartey

    19 – Inaki Williams

    20 – Mohammed Kudus

    21 – Salis Abdul Samed

    22 – Richmond Lamptey

    23 – Alexander Djiku

    24 – Ernest Nuamah

    25 – Antoine Semenyo

    26 – Baba Iddrisu

    27 – Jonathan Sowah

  • Shame! Nana Aba lays into GFA over subpar training facility for the Black Stars ahead of AFCON

    Shame! Nana Aba lays into GFA over subpar training facility for the Black Stars ahead of AFCON

    Media personality and influencer Nana Aba Anamoah criticised the Ghana Football Association (GFA) amid reports of the senior national team struggling to secure a standard pitch for their pre-African Cup of Nations (AFCON) camp.

    “The FA should be ashamed that they do not own a training facility befitting our national teams,” she tweeted on January 3, 2023.


    Social media users widely supported her stance.

    Earlier in the day, Ghanasoccernet.com reported that Ghana coach Chris Hughton and his backroom staff expressed frustration and anger over the poor camping facilities in the country.

    The players were also dissatisfied with the state of the training pitch and overall conditions in the camp, just 11 days before the start of the 2023 AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

    The team had initially planned to train at the Baba Yara Stadium but changed to the privately owned Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex due to the unsuitability of the national facility upon inspection by the technical team.

    Despite the setback, the Black Stars remain dedicated to their goal of preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations.

    The challenges posed by the suboptimal pitch conditions have, however, heightened the technical team’s disappointment, emphasising the importance of suitable training environments for optimal performance in the upcoming tournament.

  • Former EPL manager defends AFCON timing amid David Moyes rants over Kudus absence in Brighton clash

    Former EPL manager defends AFCON timing amid David Moyes rants over Kudus absence in Brighton clash

    Real Betis manager Manuel Pelligrini says the timing of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) must be respected by European clubs.

    The decision to release players for the tournament during the winter, which is a crucial time of the season, has become an issue of huge debate between clubs and countries.

    Pelligrini, who worked with 2015 AFCON winner Yaya Toure, will lose Youssouf Sabaly of Senegal and Morocco duo Chadi Riad and EZ Abde to the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast.

    The seasoned manager, however, says he is proud of them for representing their countries, so he is not concerned about their absence.

    However, the veteran manager is not worried by their absence, as he explains his pride in representing their nations.

    “ I don’t have all the information on this subject (whether it should happen in the winter or not). I think I’ve always said it: I’m completely a supporter of the national teams. Nations like to see their selection play.

    “The national teams or local football teams of each country must have their own space (competition time),” he said, as quoted by Wiw Sport.

    “In Africa, we have the CAN in January. Every club that recruits African footballers therefore knows that it cannot count on them during this CAN period,” he added.

    The dates of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations are January 13, 2023, and February 11, 2024.

    Pelligrini opens up on Real Madrid spell

    Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini had disclosed why his tenure at Real Madrid was never going to be successful.

    The Chilean manager managed the Los Blancos for one season, where he went trophyless despite having a star-studded squad.The 70-year-old finished second in the 2009/2010 campaign in La Liga despite getting 96 points.

    They lost the title to Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona, who beat them twice that season.

    Cisse includes Sabaly in AFCON squad

    It was earlier reported that Aliou Cisse supported his choice to select three injured players and Youssouf Sabaly in his team for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast the following month.

    The stars of Saudi Arabia, Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy, are among the 27 players in the former Teranga Lions captain’s team for the tournament, which was revealed on Friday.

    The reigning winners are hoping to hold onto the championship they earned in Cameroon last year as they head to Ivory Coast.

  • SuperSport TV viewers to miss out on AFCON 2023 after Multichoice’s failed attempt to secure broadcast rights

    SuperSport TV viewers to miss out on AFCON 2023 after Multichoice’s failed attempt to secure broadcast rights


    SuperSport TV viewers will miss out on the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations as Multichoice failed to secure the broadcast rights.

    The sports network, owned by Multichoice, announced that they won’t be airing the tournament taking place in Ivory Coast from January to February.

    The broadcasting rights were awarded to a Togo-based broadcaster instead.

    Despite being a reliable broadcaster of African competitions in the past, SuperSport has shown less interest in showcasing Caf competitions lately.

    They also declined to air the newly launched African Football League, where Mamelodi Sundowns emerged as the inaugural champions.


    On January 3, Multichoice issued a statement revealing their inability to secure broadcasting rights for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The rights were awarded to Togo’s New World TV by Caf.

    Caf President Patrice Motsepe praised the agreement as a historic mega deal, emphasising its significance as the largest investment by a Pan-African broadcaster in Caf’s history.

    Motsepe expressed pride in partnering with New World TV, recognising its global competitiveness and innovation in adapting to modern football audience demands.

    The Africa Cup of Nations is set to commence on January 13, featuring exciting matchups, including Ivory Coast vs. Guinea-Bissau and Egypt vs. Ghana on January 18, with Senegal and Cameroon defending their titles on January 19.

  • Chris Hughton, Black Stars squad, allegedly disappointment with subpar training facilities in Ksi

    Chris Hughton, Black Stars squad, allegedly disappointment with subpar training facilities in Ksi

    Ghana coach Chris Hughton and his coaching team are expressing frustration and anger due to the subpar camping facilities, leaving players upset about the poor conditions of the training pitch and overall camp environment just 11 days before the commencement of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.

    The contentious decision to change the camp location from South Africa to Ghana is now causing significant dissatisfaction within the team.

    The Black Stars initiated their nine-day camp in Kumasi at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, diverging from their initial plan to train at the Baba Yara Stadium.

    However, an unfortunate turn of events occurred when the technical staff found the Baba Yara Stadium’s pitch unsuitable during the planned inspection, causing a setback to the team’s preparations.

    The condition of the field was deemed unplayable, necessitating a change in their training location.

    Despite this setback, the Black Stars remain committed to their goal of preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations.

    Nevertheless, the challenges posed by the unsatisfactory pitch conditions have intensified the disappointment of the technical team, underscoring the crucial need for suitable training environments to ensure optimal performance in the upcoming tournament.

  • Baba Rahman misses AFCON line-up; he explains his exclusion

    Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman has clarified the rationale behind his choice to withdraw from Ghana’s ultimate squad for the tournament in Ivory Coast. The PAOK Salonika left-back was notably absent when Ghana coach Chris Hughton revealed the final 27-man squad for the competition.

    In a statement posted on the micro-blogging site X, the former Chelsea and Reading left-back explained that he made the decision to prioritize his career.

    “Hear me out:

    “I just wanted to say that the decision to opt out of the AFCON was solely based on footballing reasons and nothing else.

    “Playing for my country will always be the highest point of my career and every time I have been lucky to wear the shirt, I have given my all,” his message read in part.


    Baba Rahman, who has accumulated 51 caps for Ghana since his debut in 2014, has faced substantial criticism lately due to his underwhelming performances.

    The player’s relationship with fans has been strained, exacerbated by former Ghana coach CK Akonnor’s statement suggesting that Rahman was selected for the national team as a form of obligation.

    Baba Rahman experienced disapproval from the crowd during Ghana’s 1-0 victory over Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Chris Hughton’s inaugural game as the Black Stars coach.

    Ghana is set to commence their pre-tournament training camp in Kumasi on Tuesday.

    The four-time African champions are scheduled to face Namibia on January 8 in their sole preparatory friendly before departing for Ivory Coast on January 10.

  • ‘Kuduless’ West Ham draw with Brighton

    ‘Kuduless’ West Ham draw with Brighton


    The clash between West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion concluded with a scoreless deadlock.

    The Hammers hosted the Round 20 match in the ongoing English Premier League campaign at the London Stadium on January 2, 2024.

    Mohammed Kudus was absent from West Ham United’s matchday squad as he had been released to join Ghana in preparation for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

    In Kudus’ absence, West Ham felt the void of his skills but managed to field an equally competent replacement.

    Despite both teams creating numerous opportunities throughout the 90 minutes, neither side could find the back of the net, resulting in a goalless draw.

    At 23 years old, Mohammed Kudus is anticipated to miss a minimum of three West Ham matches while representing Ghana in the 2023 AFCON.

    If the Black Stars progress to the AFCON final, the prominent forward may be absent for additional games.

  • Jordan Ayew emerges as EPL’s most skilled dribbler

    Ghanaian forward Jordan Ayew concluded 2023 as the leading dribbler in the English Premier League.

    The Crystal Palace attacker achieved the highest number of completed dribbles, totaling 84, securing the top position on the chart at the conclusion of an exceptional year.

    Ayew continues to have a remarkable season with the South London club, showcasing his skills by scoring two goals and providing five assists in 19 Premier League matches.

    His standout performance was evident as Crystal Palace emerged victorious against Brentford on Sunday.

    However, Ayew has left for Ghana in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations, posing a significant setback for the Eagles in his absence.

    “It was important to win. Today’s my last game because I’ll be off to the Africa Cup of Nations. I wanted to go with a win,” said Ayew after the game.

    In the meantime, Erling Haaland concluded the year as the top goal scorer with an impressive tally of 29 goals, while Mohamed Salah topped the assist chart with 15.

    Bernard Leno of Fulham emerged as the goalkeeper with the most saves, and Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United led in creating chances, amassing a remarkable total of 133.

  • Partey, Tariq Lamptey, others missing from Black Stars line-up for 2023 AFCON

    Partey, Tariq Lamptey, others missing from Black Stars line-up for 2023 AFCON

    Coach of the Black Stars, Chris Hughton, has officially revealed Ghana’s final 27-man squad for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

    During a press conference held at the Alisa Hotel, Hughton not only disclosed the selected players but also fielded questions from the media.

    The roster includes familiar names such as Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew, Andre Ayew, and Daniel Amartey, among others.

    However, the list of notable absentees comprises Thomas Partey, Tariq Lamptey, Baba Rahman, Fatawu Issahaku, and Kamaldeen Sulemana.

    Notably, three local players, including Kotoko’s Richmond Lamptey and Medeama duo Hamid Abdul Fatawu and Jonathan Sowah, have earned spots on the squad.

    Check the full list below

    Goalkeepers

    Lawrence Ati Zigi, Richard Ofori and Jojo Wollacott

    Defenders

    Alidu Seidu, Dennis Odoi, Kingsley Schindler, Gideon Mensah, Hamid Abdul Fatawu, Daniel Amartey, Nicholas Opoku, Alexander Djiku and Mohammed Salisu

    Midfielders

    Samed Salis, Baba Iddrisu, Majeed Ashimeru, Elisha Owusu, and Richmond Lamptey
    Mohammed Kudus, Andre Ayew, Ransford Konigsdorffer, Osman Bukari, Joseph Paintsil, Jordan Ayew and Ernest Nuamah

    Strikers

    Iñaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo and Jonathan Sowah

  • Chris Hughton announces final lineup for 2023 AFCON

    Chris Hughton announces final lineup for 2023 AFCON

    Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton is set to unveil Ghana’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    The coach is currently meeting with representatives of the Ghanaian media at the Alisa Hotel, where he will not only announce the squad but also provide insights into some of the decisions he has made.

    Leading up to the squad announcement, speculations have circulated that both Baba Rahman and Fatawu Issahaku might be absent from the team.

    Reports suggest that both players requested to be excused from the squad, citing their commitment to focus on their respective club activities.

    Baba Rahman, currently in the recovery process from injury, has sought permission to concentrate on his club career, aiming to secure consistent playing time at the club level.

    Additionally, reports from Saddick Adams of Angel Broadcasting Network indicate that Fatawu Issahaku has requested exclusion from the national team, expressing concerns that his participation could impact his efforts to establish himself at Leicester City in the Championship.

    “Per his loan agreement at Leicester, there’s a clause that requires Fatawu Issahaku to meet a threshold of matches to secure a permanent stay with the English side.

    “The AFCON will mean he misses a good number of games, the reason he’s opted out of the Ghana squad,” Saddick Adams tweeted.

    Commenting on Issahaku’s chances of playing at the AFCON, the Leicester City coach said, “We are still waiting for the federations’ answer. We will see if we can have them available for the next game,” says Maresca.

    Issahaku has made a significant impact with two goals and seven assists in 21 Championship appearances for Leicester this season.

    The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to commence on January 12, 2023, and conclude on February 11, 2023.

    Ghana has been placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique.

    The Black Stars will hold their pre-tournament camp in Kumasi.

  • Chris Hughton declines West Ham’s request for Kudus to play Brighton game

    Chris Hughton declines West Ham’s request for Kudus to play Brighton game

    Ghana’s national team head coach, Chris Hughton, reportedly turned down a request from West Ham for Mohammed Kudus to join the Black Stars after their game against Brighton & Hove Albion.

    According to the gathered reports, the coach declined the request to avoid risking injury to his key player.

    In compliance with FIFA regulations, players are to be released on New Year’s Day for travel to training camps beginning on January 2, ahead of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    Consequently, Mohammed Kudus will be unavailable for selection in West Ham United’s match against Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday, January 1.

    The Black Stars forward is expected to travel to Ghana to join the national team’s camp, initiating preparations for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

    The camp will open in the afternoon, following an announcement of the final AFCON squad by Ghana’s head coach, Chris Hughton, during a morning press conference in Ivory Coast.

  • Ghana-Namibia friendly to be played ahead of AFCON

    Ghana-Namibia friendly to be played ahead of AFCON

    In a strategic move to hone their skills ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghana is set to engage in a friendly match against Namibia.

    Notably, Namibia’s national football team has chosen the scenic Western Region of Ghana for its pre-tournament training, injecting an unexpected twist to the pre-AFCON preparations.

    Namibia coach Collin Benjamin has intensified the pre-tournament excitement by unveiling his 28-player provisional squad for the highly anticipated tournament in Ivory Coast.

    Placed in Group E alongside football powerhouses South Africa, Tunisia, and Mali, Namibia is gearing up for fierce competition.

  • CAF and Orange strengthen their dedication to football development ahead of 2023 AFCON

    CAF and Orange strengthen their dedication to football development ahead of 2023 AFCON

    In a significant stride toward advancing football development, equality, and connectivity in Africa, the Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) and Orange have reaffirmed their enduring partnership in anticipation of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

    This renewed collaboration solidifies Orange’s role as the exclusive telecommunications partner for CAF, a position upheld since 2008. However, this extension goes beyond maintaining the status quo; it marks a strategic evolution. The revised partnership empowers Orange to focus its efforts on fostering connectivity, equality, and inclusivity within the realm of African football.

    As Orange gears up to support CAF’s flagship events, including the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024, and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, the spotlight is firmly on three key pillars.

    Firstly, gender equality takes center stage, reflecting a concerted effort to bridge gaps and promote inclusiveness within the sporting landscape. Orange’s commitment to fostering gender equality aligns with the broader global movement towards ensuring fair representation and opportunities for women in football.

    Secondly, the partnership places a strong emphasis on inclusion, mirroring a commitment to creating a diverse and accessible football environment across Africa and the Middle East. By leveraging the power of sport, Orange aims to break down barriers and unite fans, transcending geographical and social divides.

    Lastly, the “Orange Tous Connectés” initiative encapsulates the telecommunications giant’s mission to harness the unifying force of sports. This commitment extends beyond the stadium, aiming to connect customers and fans alike across Africa and the Middle East. Orange envisions a future where connectivity is not just a technological facet but a bridge that brings people together through their shared passion for football.

    CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “Orange has been a great supporter and partner of African Football for many years. We are excited to continue working together with Orange to make African Football amongst the best in the world and self-supporting. The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire is expected to be watched by over 800 million people and we are delighted that Orange is our partner for this competition and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Our Partnership with Orange will also support the development and growth of Women’s football on the African Continent.”

    Jérôme Henique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa comments: “Orange is a long-term and loyal partner of football in Africa and the Middle East. Our commitment to African football spans more than 20 years, and we’re proud to host over 40 football partnerships in countries across the region, including national teams as well as numerous various youth, academy and university programmes across several countries. We’re delighted to continue this important work with CAF to co-create and drive real change through common objectives.”

    The partnership between CAF and Orange rest on three pillars namely:

    • Gender equality: Orange has committed to delivering 50/50 representation across Orange’s sponsorship portfolio, promoting equal access and opportunity. This builds on our active partnership of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and specific programmes since 2018.
    • Inclusion: by leveraging the footprint of Orange Digital Centers, Orange is dedicated to engaging, educating and connecting young people. Through this partnership with CAF, Orange will develop dedicated programmes to support young players to develop their digital skills and training. For example, Orange aims to teach coding skills to youth by using football content and challenges to inspire them. From simple football games to tournament stats, we can use the sport they love to engage them in coding while building valuable digital skills.
    • Orange Tous Connectés: Orange Tous Connectés is a platform which will ensure that Orange customers benefit from seamless service continuity and connectivity to enjoy, share and participate in the sport they love.
  • Black Stars to fly to Johannesburg on Dec. 31 for pre-AFCON camping

    Black Stars to fly to Johannesburg on Dec. 31 for pre-AFCON camping

    The Black Stars will assemble in Johannesburg, South Africa on Sunday, December 31, 2023, to begin preparations for next month’s TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Cote D’Ivoire 2023.

    The team will spend approximately ten days in South Africa in readiness for Africa’s flagship competition slated for Cote D’Ivoire from Saturday, January 13, to Sunday, February 11, 2024.

    Ghana will play one friendly match against Botswana in Johannesburg on Monday, January 8, 2024, before flying to Abidjan two days later for the tournament.

    The Technical team wishes to announce that the training sessions are not open to the public/media. The Black Stars are paired in Group B alongside giants Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique. Ghana will open her campaign against Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14.

    The team will face record holders Egypt on Thursday, January 18, before playing Mozambique in the final Group B game on Monday, January 22, 2024.

  • We are looking forward for a better performance – GFA President tells Black Stars

    We are looking forward for a better performance – GFA President tells Black Stars

    Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Okraku, has expressed hope that the Black Stars will deliver a better performance at the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    In the last edition of the tournament hosted in Cameroon, Ghana exited the group phase with just one point, recording a draw against Gabon and suffering defeats against Morocco and Comoros.

    With less than a month before the start of the 34th edition of AFCON in Ivory Coast, Okraku is optimistic that the team will improve and deliver a more commendable performance.

    “Indeed, at the last outing, it did not go well. Everybody in Ghana saw what happened but we are looking forward to a much better outing at the AFCON in Ivory Coast.

    “Fortunately for us, it is happening at our next door and I will call on all Ghanaians to remain supportive of the Black Stars because that is our national team we have.

    “Even if the boys are not playing scintillating football, we have to throw weight behind them because that is our national team,” he added.

    Ghana, whose last AFCON victory was in 1982 in Libya, has been placed in Group B for the upcoming tournament alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique. The 34th edition of AFCON is scheduled to take place from Saturday, January 13, through to February 11, 2024.

  • Let’s allow Kudus to develop at West Ham and leave him out of AFCON – Ghanaian fan pleads

    Let’s allow Kudus to develop at West Ham and leave him out of AFCON – Ghanaian fan pleads

    Mohammed Kudus‘ participation in the 2023 AFCON has been resisted by a Ghanaian fan who believes the West Ham player will be better off should he miss the tournament.

    In a post on X, sports journalist, Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo, a fan, Selase, had written a letter petitioning for Kudus to be left out to enable him to have enough time to solidify his good works at West Ham, which had drawn immense admiration from supporters of the international club.

    He believes that Kudus’ performance will put Ghana in the limelight should he be allowed to focus on playing for West Ham. The fan also believes the Black Stars is currently not prepared to win the 2023 AFCON.

    “Is there a way we as a nation can agree to allow Kudus to be excuse from next years Afcon?. I believe the guy is on a mission that will Project Ghana and Africa positively. His coming at this time that he is building a rhythm with his team mates will affect him negatively believe me. Ghana’s current team is not ready for a cup. Therefore we should allow Kudus to develop, which will eventually benefit Ghana,” he wrote.

    Kudus is expected to be absent from West Ham camp for about a month due to the tournament that will take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, in the Ivorian cities of Abidjan, Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro, and Yamoussoukro.

    Ghana will be based in Abidjan, where they will play Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in the group stage.

    Kudus has proven to be a great asset to West Ham, and for this young fan, he has been mesmerized by Kudus’ attack, which saw to the club’s recent victory.

    Also, a young West Ham fan is praying for Ghana to be kicked out of the 2023 African Cup Of Nations (AFCON) to enable the Hammers have back Mohammed Kudus.

    “Let’s just hope that Ghana gets knocked out early so we can have him back. I’m telling y’all. He brings like the full package. He defends alright and his attack just flawless. He is so good and I love it when he does that celebration. It’s so good,” the male fan said.

    Over the weekend, Mohammed Kudus, Jarrod Bowen, and Lucas Paquetá delivered an early Christmas gift to east London, orchestrating West Ham United’s commanding 3-0 Premier League triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

    Kudus, maintaining his exceptional form, netted two goals in the first half, while Bowen secured the third after the break. Paquetá contributed significantly with three assists as the Hammers climbed to seventh place with 27 points from 17 games.

    In the 22nd minute, Kudus showcased his prowess with a remarkable pitch-length counter, initiated by Emerson, Edson Álvarez, and Paquetá. Breaking free down the right, Kudus cut inside and unleashed a left-footed drive from 20 yards, beating Nelson Semedo and goalkeeper Dan Bentley.

    Just ten minutes later, Kudus found himself in a familiar position, courtesy of a brilliant diagonal pass from the Brazilian. Racing past former Hammer Craig Dawson, he confidently slotted the ball home with his right foot.

    Already, West Ham United manager David Moyes has expressed his concern about the impact of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on his team.

    “We’ve got Mo Kudus, and we’ve also got Saïd Benrahma from Algeria and Nayef Aguerd from Morocco. The disappointing bit, and the thing we’ll need to manage, is losing those players for a month during the African Cup of Nations. But that’s part of it,” he said.